2021 Volkswagen Golf GTE

Volkswagen offers the new Golf in two plug-in hybrid versions in future: as Golf eHybrid and Golf GTE models. The predecessor had been available as a Golf GTE version only. The new Golf eHybrid offers a system power of 150 kW (204 PS) and a system torque of 350 Nm and is available in the exclusive Style equipment line, reflecting its comfort-oriented positioning. The new Volkswagen Golf GTE is positioned as a very sporty model. The design, setup and equipment of this version create a bridge to the Golf GTI. The system power of 180 kW (245 PS) and system torque of 400 Nm are also oriented towards this iconic model. With this greater bandwidth of plug-in hybrid models, Volkswagen is meeting the needs of a continuously growing number of customers who are today deciding in favour of a model with this intelligent and versatile drive system.

Starting in E-MODE

Both Golf models are designed so that they can cover short distances in particular using purely electric power. That is why they always start in E-MODE when the battery is sufficiently charged. In this way, the Golf eHybrid and Golf GTE automatically become zero emission vehicles at the start of every journey. People who often drive short distances and do not make long journeys frequently will not have to visit a petrol station very often.

Long distances in Hybrid mode

On longer journeys and above speeds of 130 km/h, the powerful electric motor supports the efficient petrol engine (TSI). Here, the optimised interaction between electric motor and combustion engine boosts efficiency. In other words, electric energy can be used for all-electric driving, for driving as a hybrid vehicle, or also to improve performance in the Golf eHybrid and Golf GTE. The electric assistance has the effect of an additional booster. The new lithium-ion high-voltage battery - located in the vehicle floor in front of the rear axle - supplies the electric motor with power. A power electronics module converts the direct current of the battery into alternating current for the electric motor. For power transmission, both Golf models are equipped with an automatic 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DQ400E) developed especially for use in hybrid vehicles. Only the front axle is driven in each case.

Scalable battery energy storage

The Golf eHybrid and Golf GTE are equipped as standard with 10.0-inch digital instruments (Digital Cockpit Pro), an infotainment display also with a size of 10.0 inches, and a multifunction steering wheel. There are also centrally located digital touch panels with direct access buttons for intuitive and simple operation. To charge the battery while driving, the driver can open the "Drive mode" selection menu either via the Mode direct access button under the air conditioning control panel or via the infotainment system. E-MODE and Hybrid mode are located here centrally on the uppermost level for selection by the driver. If the driver selects the Hybrid option, a battery with ten scale steps (0 to 100 percent) is then displayed showing the current charge level. The driver can recognise the charge level intuitively by the number of battery segments that are lit up in light blue. Next to the battery is a symbol with a stylised gear wheel. The driver can then access manual Hybrid mode by tapping on this symbol. The driver now has the option of maintaining the battery charge level (via the equals sign "=") or can increase it (up arrow "Ù") or lower it to a defined level (down arrow "Ú") in steps of 20 percent. To exit manual Hybrid mode again and use both drives automatically once more, the driver simply has to tap on the battery.

New GTE view

The Volkswagen Golf GTE offers a special feature. Here the driver can activate a fourth basic layout by means of the "View" button: the GTE display. Here, the middle of the display features a large central power meter (again with Charge, Power, Boost and rpm displays) as a round instrument - the letters GTE are displayed in the centre in blue. In this case, the round instruments on the left and right are correspondingly reduced in size. The graphic display with the central power meter is a digital tribute to the cockpit instruments of classic sports cars.